Nigeria joined the global community on Wednesday to mark the 2025 World Food Day, celebrated amid serious challenges in the nation’s agrifood system but with renewed optimism for a more secure and sustainable future.
According to the President of the Nigeria Agribusiness Group (NABG), Arc. Kabir Ibrahim, this year’s celebration is unique as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, offering a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to building a resilient food system.
Ibrahim highlighted several government initiatives that could transform Nigeria’s agricultural landscape if transparently implemented. These include the $3.14 million Hand-in-Hand Initiative, the National Food Systems Harmonization Strategy (NFSHS), the liberalization of the input supply market, the recapitalization of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), and the national mechanization policy.
“All these efforts align with the 2025 World Food Day theme, ‘Working hand in hand for better food and a better future,’” he said.
He emphasized the need for consistent collaboration among government, private sector, non-state actors, and the youth to effectively implement these policies and reduce hunger, which affects more than half of Nigeria’s estimated 230 million people.
“The most important outcome of the World Food Day celebration is the opportunity it provides to reduce inequality and hunger among vulnerable citizens, as envisaged by the United Nations,” Ibrahim noted.
He added that Nigeria would be better positioned for future generations if all stakeholders—farmers, investors, policymakers, and regional partners—work hand in hand to strengthen the country’s agrifood system.
